Connector Module Wireless Cable Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing networking equipment relies on interconnecting cables for communication, which can be cumbersome and inefficient in terms of identification and management, particularly in scenarios where cables need to be easily identifiable and power-efficient.
Innovation Solution
A connector module with a wireless communication module that operates in two modes: connected to a communication unit for power and data exchange, and disconnected for power harvesting and limited functionality, allowing for easy identification and management of cables using a wireless terminal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cable incorporates an RFID tag for identification, then the cable can be easily identified, but the cable management complexity increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connector module with a wireless communication device and memory unit into a single integrated component. This merging eliminates the need for separate RFID tags and reduces cable management complexity by consolidating identification, communication, and power harvesting functions into one unit that attaches directly to the cable connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides physical electrical connection, stores cable identification information in memory, enables wireless communication for cable management, and harvests power from nearby devices. This multi-functionality replaces multiple separate components (RFID tag, communication module, power source) with a single universal device.
2Ease of operation
If a cable incorporates an RFID tag for identification, then the cable can be easily identified, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module harvests power wirelessly from electromagnetic fields generated by nearby communication devices or power sources. This self-service power harvesting eliminates the need for batteries or external power connections, allowing the wireless communication and memory functions to operate without consuming additional power from the cable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional active power consumption mechanisms (batteries, powered RFID tags) with passive wireless power harvesting. The connector module captures electromagnetic energy from the environment and converts it to electrical power, substituting mechanical/chemical power sources with a field-based energy harvesting approach.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication module operates continuously for cable identification, then identification is always available, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication module operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when needed for cable identification or management tasks. The module can enter low-power states between communications, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining availability when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector module harvests power from electromagnetic fields in the environment, enabling the wireless communication function to operate without depleting a battery or consuming dedicated power from the cable system. This self-powered operation allows periodic communication activities without the power consumption constraints of traditional battery-operated systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient power management and data exchange in networking equipment, facilitating easy identification and management of cables, and reducing the need for physical connections, thereby improving logistics and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the wireless communication module is configured to harvest the electrical power from electromagnetic energy transmitted by the wireless terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A connector module includes a signal interface, a wireless communication module and a connector housing. The signal interface is configured to exchange signals between a cable and a communication unit when the connector module is connected to the communication unit. The wireless communication module is configured to exchange information in a first mode between the communication unit and a wireless terminal when the connector module is connected to the communication unit, and, when the connector module is disconnected from the communication unit, to exchange information in a second between a memory internal to the connector module and the wireless terminal mode. The connector housing contains the signal interface and the wireless communication module.